Karoo girdled lizard

Introduction: The Karoo girdled lizard (Cordylus polyzonus) has been described by some experts as 'a large, graceful girdled lizard' with a flattened body. It is one of the most commonest species in its distribution range and lives on lower mountain slopes that enjoy sun-split rock formations associated with small rock outcrops.

They are very alert creatures and at the slightest hint of trouble or danger will retreat into a rock crack and curl the tail over the head. These lizards hibernate in the winter in a deep tunnel beneath a large boulder the soil providing adequate cover for the duration of the period.

Distribution: Southern Central Namibia extending from the Orange River to the Tiras Mountains, Gondwana National Park, Fish River Canyon and Ai-Ais Hot Springs and Resort. There are also small populations around the Dordabis and Karubeamsberg areas.

Diet: In the heat of the day, the Karoo girdled lizard will perch on a boulder only interrupting a basking session to intercept an unsuspecting passing beetle or grasshopper.

Colouring: The body is dark-brown or black with a banded tail of dark-brown.

Breeding: 2 large babies are born in the summer months, usually February to March.

Size: SVL 90 to 105mm. Max 113mm.